The Proteas will no doubt be extra motivated with it being a home World Cup, while they are also inspired by the national women’s cricket team who reached the T20 World Cup earlier in the year.

However, Pretorius, who was the Player of the World Cup during the 2019 tournament in Liverpool, will be a big asset.

Speaking to OFM Sport from Australia, Pretorius, who is the Protreas vice-captain for the tournament said good that preparation will be very important.

“There is a lot of excitement within the camp and it kind of feels real now that we know who is in the squad,” said Pretorius.

“We still have quite a bit of preparation to do and we are going to take that opportunity with two hands.

“We are going to make sure we prepare as best possible before we take on the World Cup.”

In 2022 Pretorius missed out on quite a bit of international netball as she was still pregnant with her first born. This included not being able to represent South Africa at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

Pretorius added that with the World Cup being in South Africa, she can get to experience her family being next to the court at a major event, and this is something that also excites her.

“Personally, I'm over the moon with my selection and so grateful to have been given another opportunity to represent the Proteas. Especially at a pinnacle event like the World Cup.

“The fact that it's at home is even more special. I'm going to have my mom, dad, husband and daughter next to the court. That is something that I can't wait to experience.”

The Netball World Cup will get underway on 28 July 2023.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport